Don't Knock It

Description

Violin 1, Violin 2, Violin 3, Viola, Cello, Contrabass — This piece features percussive techniques; tapping, strumming, rubbing, and brushing. The piece’s title may be tongue-in-cheek, but it is also informative as it advises against using knuckles (knocking) on the wood of the instrument. Instead, tap the wood on the top (front) of the instrument with two or three fingers. In m. 27, dampen the strings with the left hand and tap on the fingerboard with the right hand. In mm. 41–48, the viola is held like a guitar; the strings are dampened with the left hand, and the right hand strums. No pitches should sound. In mm. 77–80, the right hand rubs or brushes the front of the instrument. To prevent any damage, do not strike the instruments too hard.Focus on ensemble and dynamics; the sound will carry if the rhythms are executed precisely. This piece features percussive techniques utilizing: tapping, strumming, rubbing, and brushing on string instruments. The piece's title may be tongue-in-cheek, but it asks the student to focus on their rhythmic skills. It is a creative and interesting way to break up your concert and to improve the counting and rhythmic reading skills of players.

Preview Pages